Waukegan Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Nursing home abuse and neglect is a serious concern. Everyday elderly people are mistreated in nursing homes and other assisted facilities. Some of the behavior that goes on in these facilities is deplorable and should not be overlooked.
Speaking With and Visiting Loved Ones
If a loved one is under the care of a nursing home, it is important to keep in regular contact. Ask questions about how they are being treated and make sure they are happy. In many cases, our elders may be embarrassed or ashamed to divulge information relating to improper treatment.
In other circumstances, some elderly people lack the mental capacity to even understand that they are being abused. This does not make it right.
In addition to maintaining regular communications, it is important to visit the nursing home facility every once in a while. Inspect the facility to make sure that the employees appear to be treating the residents with respect and kindness and make sure the premises is safe.
Warning Signs of Abuse
In researching facilities for a loved one, keep in mind some of the potential warning signs for abuse. For instance, employees who make rude jokes about the residents behind their back may be abusive. If the establishment lets residents roam free with little or no supervision, this may be a sign of neglect.
Poorly maintained properties may give rise to a lawsuit as well if they result in the resident being injured. It may also be helpful to reach out to the families of residents and ask whether they have heard or filed any complaints in the past against the facility.
In addition, the signs may be apparent on the resident. Unusual bruises or bedsores may indicate abuse. The resident’s behavior may be unusual, such as a lack of desire to leave their bedroom or poor appetite. Pay attention to any drastic changes.
Typical Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Cases
There are many ways a nursing home or assisted living facility can be sued for abuse or neglect. Some common causes of action include:
- Slip and falls
- Bedsores
- Malnutrition
- Wrongful death
- Medication errors
- Choking
- Sexual harassment
- Financial exploitation
- Verbal abuse
- Inadequate Staffing
Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys in Waukegan
Nursing home residents who are subject to harsh abuse or neglect can suffer serious physical and emotional injuries. In extreme circumstances, nursing home neglect or abuse can result in a wrongful death.
Loved ones may not always feel comfortable speaking about what goes on in the nursing home, but it is important to get this information from them. No one should have to live out the rest of their lives while being fearful of those who provide for them.
Nursing home abuse and neglect cannot be tolerated. If you have a loved one who may be suffering from nursing home abuse or neglect, contact our firm today for a free consultation. Our experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys serve clients in Waukegan and the surrounding areas.